In certain moments, the inner terrain may resemble a turbulent sea during a storm. However, beneath the surface, there is always a tranquil current guiding us back home.
Embarking on an inward journey is akin to uncovering the kingdom of heaven within ourselves. Whether we navigate through the doors of our inner chamber directly or weather through turbulent storms, the ultimate goal remains reaching the fountain of peace.
The mind is often likened to creating storms within us. Thoughts crash against the shores of our consciousness, while cravings and aversions act as winds pushing our nervous system into motion. Despite feeling adrift at times, the ocean of our being holds profound depths. Beneath the surface’s chaos lies a profound stillness, where the storm remains on the surface while the depths remain serene and undisturbed—a reflection of the kingdom within.
Inner simplicity doesn’t entail avoiding the waves of life but rather learning to find solace within the depths of our being.
When I conducted my inaugural Yoga class at the local community hall, only a handful of people attended, and my mind quickly conjured up negative narratives. However, the storm brewing within me was merely a creation of my thoughts, as reality unfolded quite differently in the subsequent classes.
The wisdom of ancient teachings encourages us to peel away the layers of illusion and self-created stories, leading us towards the path of inner simplicity. Various spiritual traditions emphasize the importance of turning inward, shifting from conceptual thinking to direct awareness, and refining our consciousness towards Self-realization.
Conditioned patterns, akin to stormy waters, drive us to seek fulfillment externally. Yet, when we recognize these patterns and release resistance, simplicity naturally emerges, offering a sense of relief and freedom by shedding the layers we’ve accumulated.
The path to inner simplicity is not about idleness but rather a conscious choice to remain present. Addictions and reactions often stem from resistance, prompting us to distract ourselves from challenging emotions. By acknowledging these sensations and committing to staying present, we allow them to pass through us and dissipate naturally.
Maintaining an open heart and a relaxed mind enables energy to flow freely, softening the nervous system and releasing the hold of cravings. Inner simplicity manifests in everyday moments, such as pausing before reacting impulsively or embracing disappointment without attaching a narrative of failure to it.
In essence, embracing inner simplicity involves changing our relationship with the internal weather rather than controlling it. By navigating these small moments of non-resistance, we rediscover a sense of freedom that has always been within us.